Buffelspoort MTB Trail (Closest City/Town: Laingsburg/Ladismith)

Western Cape - Central & Klein Karoo

Buffelspoort MTB Trail

CLOSEST TOWN > Ladismith

TRAIL DESTINATION > Towerkop Nature Reserve

DISTANCE > 7.2km to 30km

GRADING > Intermediate to difficult

OVERVIEW

The trails are set within the panoramic scenery of the Klein Swartberg Mountains. The idyllic Buffels River gorge forms the central feature of the resort, with the twin pinnacles of Towerkop creating a magnificent backdrop.

The riding ranges from intermediate to extreme, with 4 diverse routes to choose from.

On your bike

The trail is located on a busy working farm set within the panoramic scenery of the Swartberg mountains. The idyllic Buffels River gorge forms the central feature of this resort with the twin pinnacles of the mythical Towerkop forming a dramatic backdrop.

There are several routes to choose from. On the shorter side, opt for the 7.2km or 13.2km circular rides towards Begrafniskloof. More challenging options include the 20km return ride to Slanggat (a tough climb along a 4X4 track with fantastic views over the canyon); the 30km Touwsbergveld return route; or the 20km Buffelspoort Gorge route that follows the river course.

Rugged terrain, steep topography, challenging trail surfaces and extreme temperatures are sure to test your riding ability and endurance.

Off the bike

Buffelspoort Mountain Resort offers 4x4 outrides along rugged mountain tracks, a superb hike to Towerkop and refreshing swims in mountain pools.

In September, water from the nearby dam is released, which makes for great canoeing along the river. Add to this a number of other day hikes, game-viewing, star gazing and mountain-biking along hundreds of kilometers of gravel roads.

Oudtshoorn, George and Knysna are around the corner, each offering a host of leisure and action options to visitors to the area.

CONTACT:

Route information: Marion Nel, Buffelspoort Mountain Resort
Address: PO Box 6, Ladismith, 6655
Telephone: 028 551 2117
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Website: www.ladismith.org.za
Tel: +27 28 551 1378

GPS: 33°27’57.6”S 20°58’59.2”E

FAST FACTS

GRADING:

Intermediate to Difficult

DURATION:

Your choice: 1–4 hours

CONFIGURATION :

Circular or return; 7.2km to 30km

START POINT:

Buffelspoort Mountain Resort

TERRAIN:

Rugged, steep and challenging surfaces

MAP:

Available from the resort

CELL RECEPTION:

None

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Free to resort guests;
day visitors’ fee

FACILITIES:

Self catering cottages and flat, ablutions

BEWARE OF:

Extreme temperatures; acacia thorns

buffelspoort-map

HOW TO GET THERE

Drive from Ladismith to Laingsburg for approximately 28km before turning right at the Buffelspoort sign, and continue 3km to reception.

BEST TIME OF YEAR

April to September – you freeze; summer – you cook.